Effects of Foot Temperature Increase on Skin Sensitivity and Balance

Foot temperature is a crucial aspect of maintaining structural integrity of the foot and decreasing foot complications such as ulcer formations. Previous studies have demonstrated that skin sensitivity and postural balance is reduced as a result of foot temperature decrease to near freezing temperatures. It is currently not understood if the same effect may occur during heat increase of the foot. The purpose of this project is to determine the effects of foot temperature on skin sensitivity and postural balance during and after walking in healthy human adults. These insights will further our understanding of the capacity for healthy feet to regulate foot temperature and maintain structural integrity. We propose two specific aims. The first aim will determine the foot temperature effects on skin sensitivity and balance during prolonged walking. We hypothesize that during prolonged walking an increase in foot temperature will be correlated to a decrease in skin sensitivity and balance. The second aim will determine the foot temperature effects on skin sensitivity and balance during recovery phase after a period of prolonged walking. We hypothesize foot temperature decrease back to baseline values during recovery will be related to an increase in skin sensitivity and postural balance